Pearl

PEARL is an exhibition of work by Caroline Broadhead, Lin Cheung, Melanie Georgacopoulos, Maria Militsi and Frances Wadsworth Jones. Initially brought together through their teaching at the Central Saint Martins BA Jewellery Design course, the work of these five jewellers spans across different fields and tackles different subject matters, yet they all share a mutual fascination with the pearl. They are not alone, the pearl has been a significant index of value throughout time in many cultures. Loaded with symbolism and preconceptions, the pearl is at once a natural material, a status symbol, a fashion statement, a holder of sentiment,

The Prettiest Pearl in the Room

An ever-loved adornment for jewellery, accessories, furniture and more, the pearl is the oldest gem known to man, symbolic for its association with beauty, wealth, wisdom and purity.  Pearls are a timeless symbol of style; universally flattering due to their ability to complement a plethora of outfits and brighten just about any complexion of its wearer. One of the most precious trends for winter 2018 is the return of the pearls! Single bold chokers, as well as fine and dainty multi-strand necklaces, are a big hit with designers this season. With interesting clasps, the array of pearl jewellery this winter

The Pearl Neclace

International Pearl Design Competition 2018

Call for Applications: International Pearl Design Competition 2018 The International Pearl Design Competition (IPDC) was created in 2009 to recognize design excellence with all types of cultured pearls under the authority of the Cultured Pearl Association of America. The Awards are international in scope, and have garnered international recognition for both emerging and seasoned artists from all over the world. The judging process is anonymous, transparent, and confidential. Judges are leaders of the jewelry industry and include retailers, editors, buyers, and pearl jewelry craftsmen. Purpose of the Competition Awards are given to entries that demonstrate high levels of design achievement

International Pearl Design Competition 2016-2017

The deadline is approaching of the call for entries for the International Pearl Design Competition, open to all with a love of pearls. Enter the International Pearl Design Competition (IPDC) sponsored by the Cultured Pearl Association of America (CPAA) and you will receive a one year membership as a Designer member into the CPAA. (A $500.00 value). All cultured pearl varieties; Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian and Freshwater of any shape and size are eligible for submission. Entries are considered eligible for any of the awards being given. Let the piece you create speak for itself. You can enter up to

Danni Schwaag: A long search for pearl

Nacre also known as mother of pearl, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an inner shell layer; it also makes up the outer coating of pearls writes Ilaria Ruggiero. Nacre also known as mother of pearl, is an organic-inorganic composite material produced by some molluscs as an inner shell layer; it also makes up the outer coating of pearls. It is strong, resilient, and iridescent. Danni Schwaag’s obsession for mother of pearl started during her studies in Idar-Oberstein, when she was looking for a pearl necklace – not a classical one. She wanted to do one on her own, being fascinated by the variety of the material, its luster, the sensitivity and brittleness. Visiting all

The Flaming Pearl Queen of Conch

Prized for her rarity and creamy unique shimmer, this freshwater gemstone is hailed as The Flaming Pink Pearl Queen of the exotic sea. Whilst many have come across its sister counterparts, freshwater pearls as well as Mikimoto, pink conch pearls remain to be amongst some of the most desirable and rarest form of naturally-occuring organic gemstones. Found within the depths of the Caribbean ocean off the coast of North America, this beautifully spiral shaped snail shell inhabits from Florida down into the waters of the West Indies. The conch shell belongs to a genus family called the Gastropod as it

Traditional jewellery with a modern edge by Olivia and Pearl

There is no simpler statement of elegance than a pearl- its opaque allure has long been recognised by fashion muses and taste-makers, famously Coco Chanel, Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Diana. Now, the worlds oldest gem has captured the eye of young designer Olivia Smith, Founder of Olivia & Pearl London.  Destined for a new generation of pearl-lovers, the brand aims to be the epicentre of a Venn diagram that encompasses both affordability and luxe design, all whilst walking the fine line between traditional and contemporary. It’s no mean feat, but with the collection’s subtle curves, geometric lines and minimalistic design,

International Pearl Design Competition Eighth Edition: 2017-2018

International Pearl Design Competition Eighth Edition: 2017-2018 Pearl is the artist’s muse; jewellery brings forth the fullest and highest expression. Officially launched during the JCK show, Las Vegas, the contest will run through September 21, 2017. Winners will be announced on November 2, 2017. Winning entries will be on display during the AGTA and JCK shows in 2018. Celebrating one of the worlds' most prized and mysterious gems, this contest invites artistic expression inclusive of all pearl varieties. Whether you are a seasoned artist, award winner, or beginner you are welcome and your design aesthetic is needed. All entries have

2016-2017 International Pearl Design Competition Winners

Peter Bazar, President of the Cultured Pearl Association of America, Inc. proudly announces the winners’ of CPAA’S 2016-2017 International Design competition. “We are very happy with the success of this year’s competition, entries from 18 countries we received” Mr. Bazar reported. President’s Trophy  – “Murmuring Stream” Yi-Shiun Tsai of Taipei City, Taiwan .The highest honor awarded to a design that unanimously captivated judges as the best of the best. Luster Award  – “Dentelle” The Pearl Exporting Company of Portland, ME. Most marketable design for retail. Designer’s Award  –“Pearl Blossom” Wan-Fang Ting of Taipei City, Taiwan. Given to the entry that takes

Raw pearls debut new diamond and pearl collection at IJL

Raw Pearls, the south west based pearl supplier will launch a brand new fine diamond and pearl jewellery collection at this year's International Jewellery London. All of their diamond and pearl pieces are available set on 18ct white or yellow gold and many are available as earring and pendant sets. Raw Pearls have reacted to customer feedback, that they needed a broader range of diamond set pearl pieces so the father and daughter company are responding to this demand. The entire ragnge will be showcased at the event. Raw pearls can be fund on stand A70 in the fine jewellery

Raw Pearls announce Pearl Academy, free and accessible training videos at your fingertips

According to a study by the British Pearl Association, only 20% of staff could explain the types of pearl, nor the factors affecting the value of the pearl. Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers, have created Pearl Academy to address staff training needs; enabling retail staff to be confident when imparting their knowledge and passion for the pearl.  As well as in-store training, Pearl Academy will be releasing a series of webinar style videos that are free and accessible to anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of pearls. Part One has already been released; lasting just [youtube

Raw Pearls' 'Pearl Academy' Continues with Instalments Two and Three

Back in February, we reported that Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers, have created Pearl Academy to educate the Nation on the oldest gemstone. We're seeing pearls everywhere at the moment , from the runways to the highstreet. A huge focus on jewellery inspired by sea-life has been observable in 2019, no doubt influenced by the 2019 Pantone colour of the Year 'Living Coral' , as well as the increased media focus on our endangered ocean spaces- pearls have been the perfect pairing with shell and coral details.   With this surge in interest in pearl jewellery, there's

HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show 2020

Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show AsiaWorld Expo, Hong Kong 2 - 6 March 2020 The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show , which specialises in loose stones and raw materials for jewellery, will run from 2 - 6 March 2020 at AsiaWorld-Expo, while the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show , which focuses on finished jewellery at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The twin shows will welcome more than 4,600 exhibitors from about 50 countries and regions, forming the world’s largest jewellery marketplace. The HKTDC collaborates with the Japan Pearl Exporters’ Association and

HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show 2019

Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show AsiaWorld Expo, Hong Kong 26 February to 2 March 2019 The sixth  Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show , which specialises in loose stones and raw materials for jewellery, will run from 26 Feb to 2 March 2019 at AsiaWorld-Expo, while the 36th  Hong Kong International Jewellery Show , which focuses on finished jewellery, will take place from 28 Feb to 4 March 2019 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The twin shows will welcome more than 4,600 exhibitors from about 50 countries and regions, forming the

Precious Pearl for Those Born in June

What better way is there to celebrate the fact that we're exactly half way through the year than with a little organic charm for all those June babies out there?! Those born in June are lucky enough to have not just one but three birthstones associated with their birthday; pearls, alexandrite's and moonstones. Unlike most other gemstones that are found within the Earth, Pearls are unique in that they have an organic origin. Pearls are often either created inside the shells of living creatures such as clams and oysters or occur naturally in the mollusks of freshwater species in rivers

The 2018 Trends Edit: Pearl Revamp

For 2018 there could only be one word to describe the resounding theme of jewellery trends: Big. With big hoops, big jewels, big designs and big logos, it's no surprise that the spotlight is also shining loud and proud on big pearls! Femininity is the buzz word for 2018 with a resurgence of vintage-style florals, summer gingham and plaid as well as mix n'match power pastels. Pearls are back with a punch and nothing says feminine quite like pearls. A fabulous addition to any outfit, pearls are notoriously met with hesitation due to their associations with prim afternoon teas worn

The Modern Pearl Collection by Margot McKinney

Internationally acclaimed jewellery designer  Margot McKinney  is redefining the way women wear pearls with a new collection created from the unusual beauty of Australian South Sea pearls. Based in Australia, Margot  McKinney hails from a long family tradition of luxury retail  dating back to 1884.   Transcending mere adornment,  her  jewelry  designs  are statement pieces of pristine craftsmanship that lend any ensemble a touch of the sublime. For Margot, it often begins with the stone, sourced with extreme care from rare finds. Out of its intrinsic qualities, she fashions the ideal setting for the gem to shine at its most

Nacre: Melanie Georgacopoulos at Munich Jewellery Week

​ Nacre: Melanie Georgacopoulos Munich Jewellery Week Munich, Germany 13th - 16th March 2019 'Nacre' marks Melanie Georgacopoulos's first solo exhibition for ten years. In this time Melanie has cemented herself as a leading figure in the world of pearl jewellery due to her daring and innovative approach which has seen her slice, drill and facet pearls, fearlessly experimenting with them as a material to great acclaim. In a natural progression from her examination of the pearl, Melanie turned her attention in 2016 to the often overlooked by-product of the pearl industry, mother of pearl. MOP, otherwise known as nacre,

Melanie Georgacopoulo: MOP Shell Collection

The MOP Shell collection crafted by Melanie Georgacopoula celebrates Mother of Pearl and its various beautiful colours, featuring seamless MOP diamond and emerald forms, paired with 18ct gold and freshwater pearls. Mother of Pearl, otherwise known as nacre is produced by mollusks as an inner shell layer, it also makes up the outer coating of pearls. It is a strong, resilient and iridescent material that has been used for thousands of years, mainly in the form of inlay. Natural Mother of Pearl has many different applications worldwide, in both expensive and inexpensive items. It can be commonly found in East

News Edit: 3 July 2022

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   The enticing collection of jewellery from the house of eagle & pearl jewelers The Hiltonian: As one of the oldest jewelers in the world, Eagle and Pearl has continued its legacy over the years by partnering with high-quality brands. thehiltonian.com Singapore chemical engineer sees career bloom after switching from oil to flowers Yahoo News: Janice Lim had always considered herself a risk-averse person who planned her schedules well in advance. news.yahoo.com How to land a job in the luxury industry: 3 tips every student should know Study International:

Raw Pearls to hold 25% off stock clearance at IJL

Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers have had an incredible year with the launch of an innovative education programme, numerous awards and new product lines. All of which they will celebrate with a monumental stock clearance at this year’s IJL. Director Miranda Raw said, “As we all know, the high street has been somewhat stuck of late, and we want to help our clients by offering at least 25% off hundreds of our lines at IJL in September. Visitors will see pearl prices like they’ve never seen before!” Pearls have been enjoying a revamp for some

Pearls - A Practical Guide ​by Wendy Graham

Pearls - A Practical Guide by Wendy Graham Pearls are one of the oldest precious gemstones.  They have been revered through history and the best reserved to adorn royalty and their favourites.  Now, with the arrival of freshwater pearls, they are available to suit every pocket and every style, from the classic to the most creative.   Includes a guide to the types of pearl and to the farming process.  Gives advice on buying pearls; what to look for and what to avoid.  Gives instruction on working with pearls, including drilling, setting and knotting.  Finally, there is information on South Sea,

News Edit: 30 May 2021

Here is a round up of this week's international jewellery news...   Pandora says lab-grown diamonds the ethical choice. Not so, say diamond miners. Who’s right? SCMP: Tobias Kormind, of online retailer 77 Diamonds, says diamond miners have largely eliminated shady dealings, and notes that lab-grown stones need a lot of power. www.scmp.com My lightbulb moment: Jewellery designer who created a collection of pearls for the modern woman reveals the inspiration behind her business Daily Mail: Olivia, 40, founded the Olivia & Pearl jewellery brand in 2016. She lives in London with her husband James, a major in the Royal

Playing with Pearls

The pearl has long been a stable of those who long for an elegant and sophisticated style but 2019 will see the classic piece make a return to the mainstream spotlight and in turn, convert a whole new fashion crowd. If you're one to keep your beady eyes on the trends, you'll have noticed that pearls are a fashion staple that never seems to go out of style. Adorning just about every inch of fashion's finest chunky trainers, strung tightly around choker-style chains and delicately dangling from earlobes across the runway, the resurgence of pearls this season is all about

Raw Pearls Celebrate After Record Breaking IJL

Raw Pearls, one of the UK’s leading pearl jewellery suppliers, have announced that they had their most successful IJL ever after exhibiting there earlier this week for what was their 6 th  year at Olympia.   Many visitors took advantage of the discounted prices Raw Pearls had on offer as part of their huge clearance sale at the show. They have reported that the most popular items were cultured Tahitian strings, nucleated freshwater strings both round and baroque, and also, in line with recent fashion trends, larger baroque freshwater strings. Director, Miranda Raw went on to say “We were thrilled with

JNA Jewellery Design Competition

Call for Applications:  JNA Jewellery Design Competition 2018/19 The inaugural competition is organised by JNA of UBM Asia Limited, sponsored by Crossfor HK Ltd, Platinum Guild International (PGI) and the Tahitian Pearl Association Hong Kong (TPAHK), the competition recognises and celebrates excellence in jewellery design. It invites amateur and professional jewellery designers to harness their passion and ingenuity towards producing modern and innovative designs that reflect their perspective. Theme of the competition The theme of the 3 categories are : Dancing Stone jewellery category - New Fashion Tech Materials: Entrants may incorporate gem and metal materials such as diamonds, coloured

Step into super natural delights

When you think of fall and the beginnings of autumn delights, what immediately springs to mind? Leaves! As the world continues to turn, marking the arrival of a fresh new beginning and season, jewellery designers have taken inspiration from the earthy wonders of our world. Ethereal leaves, natural structures, organic shapes and deep, fiery gold figured heavily in the arrival of fall/winter 2018-2019 jewellery trends. The arrival of super natural pieces swathed in deep tones and swirls of gold, crystal and pearl radiate a whimsical, delicate, elusive and enigmatic look just in time for September. The fall fashion runways showcased

Mari Funaki Award Announce 2018 Winners

Benedikt Fischer, has been announced as the winner of the 2018 Mari Funaki Award for Contemporary Jewellery in the Established category for his series of five Pearly Whites brooches, made from shell, mother of pearl, remanium and sculpey. Benedikt receives A$8000 (£4,379.78) and his work will enter the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria (subject to approval of the Board of Trustees). The judges said of this work: "What stands out in these pieces is the freshness and humour, as well as the incredible material resolution and skill. It’s difficult to work with shell and create something that isn’t

Royal favourite Claudia Bradby launches new collection

Just ahead of Prince Harry's wedding to Megan Markle, jewellery designer Claudia Bradby, who is a personal friend to Britain's hottest young royals has launched a brand new collection which includes a 'mother and baby' pendant designed in collaboration with the HRH Duchess of Cambridge. For Bradby, whose ITN News anchor husband Tom scooped the official royal engagement interview with William and Kate back in 2010, 'Personalise' marks a shift in focus since this is her first customisable collection, aimed principally at gift purchasers. It comprises a series of silver and pearl charms, made from sterling silver and coated in

British Fashion Council Announce Designer Fashion Fund Recipients

The British Fashion Council (BFC) this week announced  Mother of Pearl  and  palmer// harding  as the winners of this year’s BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund at a champagne reception hosted at Hotel Café Royal in partnership with Perrier- Jouët . In 2017 the Fund adjusted its format with a focus on bringing key expertise into designer businesses to assist with development and growth. The £200,000 Fund was opened up to be shared between up to three recipients, enabling the fund to benefit multiple designers at a pivotal stage in the growth of their brand’s development. The winners still receive a full

Design a Pair of Silver Hoop Earrings

Jewellery Design Project:  Design a pair of silver hoop earrings for  Georgiana Scott’s THE HOOP STATION sister label We would like to give a young Jeweller the opportunity to pitch a design to us for our Christmas launch and the winning design would be put into our collection with immediate effect. About Us Our story is everyday luxury, effortlessly. 925 sterling silver collections which are made in Italy, freshwater pearl collections and a curated selection of 18 carat gold. Established in London in 1991, Georgiana Scott is one of the original boutique jewellery labels. We are known for accessible, ageless,

Swinging Into New Year Ear Bling

New Year is all about ringing in the changes, embracing something different and refreshing your look ready to kick last year into the past. After the ear cuff was the jewellery prince of royalty throughout 2017, this year will welcome the pendulum swing of XXL length earrings in shiny, sculptural, arty, glitzy chandeliers. 2018 is all about going big or going home so step up your bling game and make a statement with elegant cascading stand-out earrings! From left to right: Gold 3D Flower Droppers , Large Pearl Drop Earrings , Gold & Black Perspex Flower Droppers , Shell Dropper

Melanie Georgacopoulos: MOP Shell Collection Features New Pieces

Melanie Georgacopoulos recently added new pieces to their "MOP Shell" collection. They will be unveiling the collection this week at Collect at the Saatchi Gallery, London, where  you can discover the new additions!  Mother of Pearl, otherwise known as nacre is produced by mollusks as an inner shell layer, it also makes up the outer coating of pearls. It is a strong, resilient and iridescent material that has been used for thousands of years, mainly in the form of inlay. Natural MOP has many different applications worldwide, in both expensive and inexpensive items. It can be commonly found in East Asian and

School of Jewellery Students Impress With Halo Designs

Three second year students studying for a Higher National Diploma in Jewellery and Silversmithing at the Birmingham City University's School of Jewellery have been shortlisted as finalists in an annual design competition run by Birmingham-based casting house, 3D printing and bespoke manufacturing company Weston Beamor. The brief for this year’s Live Project was to design a halo engagement ring and a fitted wedding band to sit alongside it.  All designs had to include a primary gemstone or pearl, mounted in precious metal. Students were asked to tailor their designs towards 25-35 year olds. Three potential winners – Ruth Hallows, Bethany

Not Just For The Queen: Girl With The Pearls

Not only for the ladies who lunch at Selfridges on a Tuesday, pearls are irrefutably the emerging trend to reign supreme on the fashion runways this fall. Not one to take no for an answer, the pearly presence has always remained in low-level limelight behind the scenes but it seems the time has come to breath a fresh wave of innovative air into the timeless ocean-bread adornment. Long gone are the days of prim, poised and proper with the return of the pearl showcasing new generation inspired design through larger than life iridescent balls married amongst chunky military jackets, sports

Nadine Aysoy makes eye-catching IJL debut

London-based designer Nadine Aysoy made a dazzling IJL debut when she scooped the 2017 Editors Choice 'Show Stoppers' Award for displaying the single most eye-catching exhibit of the show. Her Mille et Une Feuilles 18k rose gold ring, set with one 14mm South Sea Pearl and 164 round-cut diamonds, turned the heads of the judging panel of magazine and digital editors, who praised its leaf design and admired it for having 'drama, intrigue and beautiful craftsmanship.’ “I love Nadine’s aesthetic and the consideration she puts into the market she’s targeting,” one judge commented. “Hers are pieces for grown-ups and designs